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Compromise Bill Calls For Appointments At LA Ports

A compromise bill expected to be signed into law in California would set up an appointment system for trucks hauling containers in and out of the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

The bill, AB 2650, originally called for container terminal operators to be fined $250 for every truck that idles at the terminal gate for more than 30 minutes. The measure was endorsed by the California Trucking Assn. and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, but vigorously opposed by the ports.

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A compromise worked out Wednesday set up an appointments system, and terminals won concessions that would mean no fines if an appointment system is in place and delays are unavoidable. The law calls for the new system to be in place by next July, but terminals are expected to start appointments later this year, according to published reports.The legislation is not expected to change plans for a pilot program that would keep some gates open during a new graveyard shift.Stephanie Williams with the CTA told Copley News Service she doesn’t believe the appointment system will get rid of the long lines of trucks waiting at the ports. “Longer (gate) hours and fines are the best way to go,” she said.